Retiree Assistance Office Bulletin Update -1 May 2006

THE BULLETIN UPDATE CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING ARTICLES:
Tricare User Fee [13] --------------------- (On hold till JAN 08)
Social Security Reform ------------------- (Death benefit cut)
VA Appointments [02[ -------------------- (Longer waiting times)
VDBC [03] --------------------------------- (VA Comp + SSDI?)
Funeral Disorderly Conduct [04] -------- (CA legislation)
VA DNA Database ------------------------ (Begins FY 07)
Tricare Uniform Formulary [11] -------- (More changes)
NGB DOD Representation --------------- (H.R.5200/S.2658)
TRDP [04] ------------------------------ (Dental premium increase)
Tricare Computers Hacked --------------- (14000 files accessed)
Cold War Medal --------------------------- (Proposed again)
AAAFES Gas Pricing Policy ------------ (Not tax free)
VA Alert on VAS ------------------------- (Copycat website)
Consumer Health Digest ----------------- (Phony health care)
COLA 2007 [01] -------------------------- (CPI up 1.3% to date )
SSMAC Lodging New York ------------ (Inexpensive w/no frills)
Tricare Obesity Treatment --------------- (Limited to 3 types)
Virginia Tuition [01] --------------------- (Vet reduced rates)
TMOP [04] -------------------------------- (Enrollment procedures)
Jobs w/o College Degree Rqmt --------- (20 top paying)
Enlistment to Avoid Prosecution -------- (No longer allowed)
DoD SMART Scholarships -------------- (How to apply)
VA Cemeteries [01] ----------------------- (Burial eligibility)
Military Legislation Status --------------- (Update)

For detailed information on these topics see:
http://post_119_gulfport_ms.tripod.com/rao1.html

Check In Often!!

Another Push to cut VA Benefits

OpEdNews dot Com article from Larry Scott at VA Watchdog dot Org

by Larry Scott

Vets’ Commission Chair, General Terry Scott wants to study if vets should get VA compensation and Social Security disability at the same time with the aim of reducing benefits. In an unconstitutional move, he asks Congress to interpret its own law so he would have the power to launch study.

The next step in dismantling veterans’ benefits could be a payment reduction, known as an offset, for veterans receiving disability compensation and Social Security.

For more information see: http://www.vawatchdog.org/milcom/pushtocutvabenefits.htm

Some Tricare computer files compromised

U.S. Department of Defense

Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs)News Release
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
No. 375-06 April 28, 2006

DoD Announces Detection of Intrusion into TMA Files

The Department of Defense announced today that routine monitoring detected unusual activity on one of the TRICARE Management Activity’s (TMA) public servers.

Investigation of the activity led to the discovery that an intrusion had occurred and information was compromised.

William Winkenwerder Jr., the assistant secretary of defense for health affairs, said the department’s response was swift but focused. “As a result of this incident, we immediately implemented enhanced security controls throughout the network and installed additional monitoring tools to improve security of existing networks and data files,” he said. “Such incidents are reprehensible, and we deeply regret the inconvenience this may cause the people we serve.”

Information contained in the accessed files varied, and investigators do not know the intent of the crime or if any of the information will be misused.

TMA has sent letters to affected individuals advising them of the incident and that the compromise of their personal information may potentially place them at risk for identity theft. Additional information has been provided to assist them in understanding the potential risks and precautions they can take to protect their identities.

The Defense Criminal Investigative Service is participating in the investigation.

For more information see: http://defenselink.mil/releases/2006/nr20060428-12920.html

UPDATE: Dept of Navy and Marine Corps??

We wanted to send out an update of what has been going on with the DNMC fight and thank you for all your support in getting this bill passed. On April 12th, the Washington Post wrote an article regarding our petition to get Congress to actually act. You can read it by visiting: http://www.washingtonpost.com/ and searching for DNMC.It is never a fun task to give bad news, but once again Senator John Warner of Virginia has demonstrated that he believes that honoring the United States Marine Corps is not even worth discussing. After the article in the Washington Post ran, we sent a request to meet with the senator or a member of his staff. It was ignored. It has been suggested that the senator does not want to discuss this because it would bring attention to the war, but that is just a sorry excuse. Another round of bad news it that we have sent letters to the rest of the Republican senators asking for their support, but again the offices have stated that they will either back Senator Warner. Or they simply do not respond to the request. What is needed is for each and every one of you to continue forwarding the petition to friends and family (http://www.dnmc,us:/) and then to call both the Republican National Committee and John Warner’s office and ask why they will not even TALK about honoring the Marine Corps. Last Monday, Senator Harry Reid of Nevada (D) office contacted us and stated that his office would review the bill in the House of Representatives to possibly offer it in the Senate. We are hoping that if the Republicans will not assist our effort, maybe the Democrats will have guts to support the men and women that they voted to send to war. Contact Numbers: National Republican Committee Telephone: (202) 863-8500 Ask for Ken Mehlman’s office (Mel-man) Senator John Warner Chairman of the Armed Services Committee Telephone: 202-224-2023 As always, should you have any questions, please contact us at info@dnmc.us:

DoD Announces Indiana Marine Death

U.S. Department of DefenseOffice of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs)News Release
On the Web: http://defenselink.mil/releases/2006/nr20060424-12873.html
Media Contact: Marine Corps Public Affairs - (703) 614-4309
Public contact:http://www.dod.mil/faq/comment.html or +1 (703) 428-0711
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
No. 348-06April 24, 2006
DoD Identifies Marine Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a Marine who was supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Cpl. Eric R. Lueken, 23, of Dubois, Ind., died April 22 while conducting combat operations against enemy forces in Al Anbar province, Iraq. He was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii.

Media with questions about this Marine can call the Hawaii Public Affairs Office at (808) 257-8870/71.

Airmen Missing In Action From WWII are Identified

U.S. Department of DefenseOffice of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs)News Release

IMMEDIATE RELEASE
No. 338-06April 21, 2006

Airmen Missing In Action From WWII are Identified

The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of eleven U.S. airmen, missing in action from World War II, have been identified and are being returned to their families for burial with full military honors.

They are Capt. Thomas C. Paschal, El Monte, Calif.; 1st Lt. Frank P. Giugliano, New York, N.Y.; 1st Lt. James P. Gullion, Paris, Texas; 2nd Lt. Leland A. Rehmet, San Antonio, Texas; 2nd Lt. John A. Widsteen, Palo Alto, Calif., Staff Sgt. Richard F. King, Moultrie, Ga.; Staff Sgt. William Lowery, Republic, Pa..; Staff Sgt. Elgin J. Luckenbach, Luckenbach, Texas.; Staff Sgt. Marion B. May, Amarillo, Texas.; Sgt. Marshall P. Borofsky, Chicago, Ill.; Sgt. Walter G. Harm, Philadelphia, Penn.; all U.S. Army Air Forces.

On April 16, 1944, Paschal and Widsteen were piloting a B-24J Liberator with the other nine men aboard. The aircraft was returning to Nadzab, New Guinea after bombing enemy targets near Hollandia. The plane was last seen off the coast of the island flying into poor weather.

For more information see: http://defenselink.mil/releases/2006/nr20060421-12857.html

DD-214 NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE!!

The National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) has provided the following website for veterans to gain access to their DD-214 online: <http://vetrecs.archives.gov/>. This may be particularly helpful when a veteran needs a copy of the DD-214 for employment purposes. NPRC is working to make it easier for veterans with computers and Internet access to obtain copies of documents from their military files. Military veterans and the next of kin of deceased former military members may now use a new online military personnel records system to request documents. Other individuals with a need for documents must still complete the Standard Form 180, which can be downloaded from the online website.
Because the requester will be asked to supply all information essential for NPRC to process the request, delays that normally occur when NPRC has to ask veterans for additional information will be minimized.
The new web-based application was designed to provide better service on these requests by eliminating the records center's mailroom processing time."

65th Anniversary of the USO

"A million acts of kindness..."
These words a soldier used to describe the USO during World War II still apply today as the organization, established in 1941, celebrates its 65th birthday Feb 4, 2006.

For the 65th Anniversary and more see: www.uso.org

Many thousands of requests for the fostering of pets have come in from members of our armed forces, National Guard and Reservists, that are being called to active duty as a result of the War on Terror, including the deployments in Afghanistan and Iraq. Our foster volunteers are proud to have provided so many caring cat foster homes and for making it possible for there to be many very happy reunions, and many have continued to foster for other military pets.

For more information on Fostering Pets for our Military see: http://www.operationnoblefoster.org/

A Marine Mom's Request

Peggy Getty received this note from a Marine Mom she knows and is sharing it with her permission in order to spread this request far and wide.

All:

Jerry, Brenda and I went back again to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio yesterday.(we have been going there once a month since December) to visit our severley injured military (these are the severely burned and amputees.) There is a new arrival (arrived March 13) named Sgt. John Phillips. John is from South Carolina. He was burned over 77% of his body and will probably lose his feet because the tendons are dead. He is in ICU so we, of course, were not allowed in his room. We did however meet his parents, Allen and Cookie Phillips. When we gave Allen and Cookie the cards, posters, goodies, etc. from church groups, school children, us, and others, the Mom started crying and just kept saying "Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!" When I asked Cookie if there was absolutely anything else that we could do for John, she said, "Yes, just please please ask everyone to pray for John, and cards, letters, posters, etc. like these you brought today do wonders for boosting John's spirits!"

So, I am asking each of you to please pray for John and put him in any prayer chains you know of anywhere! Also, if you would like to send a card, letter, etc. to him, here is his address:

Sgt. John Phillips
c/o GySgt. Ronald Morris, PAT Team
Brooke Army Medical Center
3851 Roger Brooke Drive, Bldg. 3600
Ft. Sam Houston, TX 78234-6200

DoD Website Links Service Members to Deployment Medical Research

U.S. Department of Defense
Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs)
News Release
On the Web: http://defenselink.mil/releases/2006/nr20060412-12807.html
Media Contact: (703)697-5131 Public contact:
http://www.dod.mil/faq/comment.html
or +1 (703) 428-0711
IMMEDIATE RELEASE No. 311-06
April 12, 2006

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DoD Website Links Service Members to Deployment Medical Research

The Department of Defense recently announced a new Web site, DeployMed ResearchLINK, for service members, veterans, their families and other members of the public to access medical research information in a unique and innovative way.


By mid-summer, the site will include information related to the most recent military deployments, such as Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.


“This Web site reflects the Department’s commitment to research that addresses deployment-related health concerns,” William Winkenwerder Jr., assistant secretary of defense for health affairs said.


Information on the new site combines two Web sites DeployMed and Medsearch and is organized to ensure ease of navigation. Visitors can access medical research information by geographic region, major deployment or health topic of interest.


“DeployMed ResearchLINK is an easily accessible research tool, for service members, veterans and their families to link to deployment medical research,” Ellen P. Embrey, deputy assistant secretary of defense for force health protection and readiness said.


Embrey also emphasized that the department remains committed to keeping veterans informed on deployment issues and information that most affects them.


DeployMed ResearchLINK is the result of successful coordination between the departments of Defense, Veterans Affairs, and Health and Human Services and demonstrates their investment in medical research to address deployment health concerns.


For more information visit http://www.deploymentlink.osd.mil/deploymed.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- News Releases: http://www.defenselink.mil/releases/
-- DoD News: http://www.defenselink.mil/news/dodnews.html
-- Subscribe/Unsubscribe: http://www.defenselink.mil/news/dodnews.html#e-mail
-- Today in DoD: http://www.defenselink.mil/today/

-- U.S. Department of Defense Official Website - http://www.defenselink.mil/
-- U.S. Department of Defense News About the War on Terrorism - http://www.defendamerica.mil/

Sign Petition: Dept of Navy and Marine Corps?

All Marines need to visit www.dnmc.us website to sign the petition to be taken to Congress in support of bringing the Marine Corps on even ground "Department wise that is", with the rest of the branchs of service.

Pentagon Channel Adds Video Podcasting to Production Line

U.S. Department of Defense
Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs)
News Release
On the Web: http://defenselink.mil/releases/2006/nr20060412-12802.html
Media Contact: (703)697-5131 Public contact:
http://www.dod.mil/faq/comment.html
or +1 (703) 428-0711
IMMEDIATE RELEASE No. 307-06
April 12, 2006

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pentagon Channel Adds Video Podcasting to Production Line

The Pentagon Channel, the Department of Defense’s video news service, recently added video podcasting to its line of products that distribute the channel's military news and information to the military and audiences around the world.

“We work hard to communicate with the men and women of the department around the world,” said Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld. “I am pleased that we are using video casting and other increasingly important technologies to reach our global audience with all the news and information available on the Pentagon Channel.”

The Pentagon Channel’s video podcasting line-up is comprised of its daily military news and information show, “Around the Services in Brief - RECON,” an in-depth look at real-world military operations, missions, and events; and “Around the Services Reloaded,” a weekly round-up of news and information important to service members stationed around the world.

In addition to its new video podcasts, the Pentagon Channel will continue to offer an audio podcast and to stream a live Webcast of the channel at http://www.pentagonchannel.mil/ .

“Leveraging technologies like video and audio podcasting allows us to communicate relevant and timely military news and information to our men and women in the U.S. military, anywhere, anytime – it’s a great capability,” said Brian Natwick, general manager of the Pentagon Channel.

Video podcasting is a method of publishing video broadcasts via the Internet, allowing users to subscribe to a feed of new files. There is no cost to subscribe and broadcasts are delivered straight to the subscriber’s computer desktop. Files can be viewed either on a personal computer or on a mobile video device, such as a video-enabled iPod.

The Pentagon Channel, the Department of Defense’s video news service, broadcasts military news and information for and about the 2.6 million members of the U.S. Armed Forces -- Active Duty, National Guard and Reserve. Broadcasting 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the Pentagon Channel helps ensure that U.S. forces remain the best informed in the world.

Today, the Pentagon Channel is available on-base to the more than one million service members who live and work on the 312 military bases, camps and installations in the United States that currently receive the Pentagon Channel. Additionally, the channel is available to the 700,000 service members and their families serving overseas in 177 countries via the American Forces Radio and Television Service.

The Pentagon Channel also reaches more than 12 million households through commercial distribution on satellite and cable systems nationwide. DISH Network, Verizon FiOS and divisions of Comcast, Time Warner, Cox, Charter, Mediacom, RCN, Armstrong, Midcontinent, Knology, GCI, and a number of smaller cable companies and local access channels in communities around the country carry the Pentagon Channel.

For more information on video podcasting, as well as to view the Pentagon Channel streamed live, visit http://www.pentagonchannel.mil/.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-- News Releases: http://www.defenselink.mil/releases/
-- DoD News: http://www.defenselink.mil/news/dodnews.html
-- Subscribe/Unsubscribe: http://www.defenselink.mil/news/dodnews.html#e-mail
-- Today in DoD: http://www.defenselink.mil/today/

-- U.S. Department of Defense Official Website - http://www.defenselink.mil/
-- U.S. Department of Defense News About the War on Terrorism - http://www.defendamerica.mil/

Who knew about this?

By Tom Applegate

After addressing about a hundred members of the Service Club of Indianapolis a week ago Monday, I wasn’t surprised when many veterans indicated that they didn’t know the State of Indiana offered so many benefits to its veterans. The club, organized by a group of World War I veterans back in 1920, meets every Monday at the Knights of Columbus Hall on 71st and Keystone.

During the Q&A portion of my presentation the general feeling was, “who knew about this?” One member suggested that I write to the local newspapers and try to get this information out, so here it is.

By way of introduction, I was appointed by Governor Mitch Daniels to be the Director of the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs in February of 2005 after serving for ten years as the Huntington County Veterans’ Service Officer. Before that I spent twenty-five and one-half years in the military, retiring in 1995 from the Indiana Army National Guard at the rank of first sergeant.

Some of the things which caught them by surprise were:

1. The children of wartime-era disabled Hoosier veterans are eligible for tuition-free college at any state-supported college or university, regardless of their age and regardless of the disability rating of the veteran. This, thanks to Governor Daniels and Hoosier legislators who restored the Indiana Remission of Fees program back to its original language at the end of the current short session.

2. Veterans rated 10% disabled or higher pay reduced property taxes in the State of Indiana. The exemptions range from $12,480 to $24,960 and, if the veteran is over age 62, could be as high as $37,440. Some exemptions apply to wartime-era veterans and some to peace-time and some involve a maximum assessed valuation of the property .

3. Men and women currently serving in the military and military retirees receive a $2,000 state tax exemption on their military or retired pay.

4. Any Indiana resident rated as service-connected disabled by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs may purchase a license to hunt and fish in the State of Indiana for a reduced fee.

5. For any State employee who is also a member of the National Guard or Reserves who is mobilized for active duty and whose military basic pay is less than their state pay, the State will make up the difference in their pay.

6. If an Indiana National Guard member is killed while serving on Federal or State Active Duty, the spouse and children will be eligible for tuition-free college at any state-support college or university.

7. The new Military Family Relief Fund just signed into law by Governor Daniels will be supported by the sale of the Hoosier Veteran license plate, a new Support Our Troops license plate, and donations.

It is an excellent time to be a veteran in Indiana. For more information about these and other benefits, contact the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs locally at 232-3910 or toll-free at 1-800-400-4520.


Charles T. "Tom" Applegate
Director, Indiana Dept. of Veterans Affairs302 W. Washington Street, Room E120Indianapolis, IN 46204
Office: (317) 232-3910Mobile: 317-696-0144
Fax (317) 232-7721
tapplegate@dva.in.gov

A Mother's Tribute to Fallen Marine Heros

Karla Comfort received a lot of looks and even some salutes from people when she drove from Benton, Ark., to Camp Pendleton, Calif., in her newly-painted, custom Hummer H3 March 2. The vehicle is adorned with the likeness of! her son, 20-year-old Lance Cpl. John M. Holmason, and nine other Marines with F Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division who where all killed by the same improvised explosive device blast in Fallujah, Iraq, in December.

For Karla Comfort, having the vehicle air brushed with the image of the 10 Marines was a way to pay homage to her hero and his fellow comrades who fell on Iraq's urban battlefield.

"I wanted to let people know (Marines) are doing their jobs honorably, and some of them die," said the 39-year-old from Portland, OR "I don't want people to forget the sacrifices that my son and the other Marines made."

Leading up to her son's death, Karla Comfort had received several letters from him prior to his return. He had been deployed for five months, and Comfort "worried everyday he was gone until she got the letters and found out the date he was coming home," she said.

Marines knocked on the front door of her home in Farmington, Mich., at 3 a.m. with the dreadful news.

"I let my guard down when I found out he was coming home," she said. "There are times that I still cannot believe it happened. It's very hard to deal with."

Karla Comfort came up with the idea for the rolling memorial when she and her two other sons attended John's funeral in Portland, Ore.

The National Museum of the Marine Corps

A Monument to Honor, Courage and Commitment...

Currently under construction and scheduled to open in November 2006, the National Museum of the Marine Corps will be a lasting tribute to U.S. Marines -- past, present and future. Situated on a 135-acre site adjacent to the Marine Corps base in Quantico, Virginia, the museum's soaring design evokes the image of the flag raisers of Iwo Jima and beckons visitors to its 100,000 square foot structure. World-class, interactive exhibits using the most innovative technology will surround visitors with irreplaceable artifacts and immerse them in the sights and sounds of Marines in action.

Keep an eye on this Blog for more information on the opening. As the State of Indiana Liaison to the National Museum of the Marine Corps, I will be getting more information from the Museum on the detailed scedule and events surrounding the opening on November 10th.

For more detailed information see: http://www.usmcmuseum.org/

Legislative Update

Issue 1: TRICARE Fee "Summit".
Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) held a second "summit" meeting with Pentagon and military association leaders in his continuing search for a fair resolution on the issue of TRICARE fee increases.
Issue 2: More Drugs Shifting to Higher Copays.
Several drugs used to treat bladder control conditions, hypertension, or neuropathic pain may soon be moved to the $22 copayment category.
Issue 3: Sen. Lincoln Fights Disability "Back Tax".
Sen. Blanche Lincoln introduced a bill this week to let disabled retirees recover back income taxes when the VA approves a retroactive disability date that's more than three years in the past.

For detailed information see: http://www.moaa.org/

Indianapolis Marines Returning Home - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

News Release
Detachment 2, Electronics Maintenance Company,
4th Maintenance Battalion
3010 White River Parkway East Drive
Indianapolis, IN 46208

Release Number: 001-06
Release Date: 07 April 2006

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Local Reserve Marines Returning Home From Tour in Iraq

Approximately 10 Marines from the Indianapolis-based 4th Maintenance Battalion will be returning home after a seven-month tour in Iraq this Saturday.
The Marines deployed with the 6th Civil Affairs Group – a provisional unit created for the sole purpose of supporting the Marine Corps’ civil affairs mission in Iraq – and operated throughout the Al Anbar Province. The unit provided all civil affairs support to 2nd Marine Division to include Operations Sayaid II, Steel Curtain, Freedom Express, and Patriot Shield II.
By overseeing governance capacity building, civil administration, economic development, and infrastructure restoration, the Marines made immeasurable contributions to the future of Iraq.
Their accomplishments include:
· Spearheaded the establishment of 11 new city councils.
· Worked with 15 municipal governments to help restore critical infrastructure and facilitate self-governance.
· Supported 2nd Marine Division and the Iraqi Independent Election Committee in conducting the successful constitutional referendum in October and the first national parliamentary elections in December. Voter participation increased from13,500 in the January elections to over 365,000 voters in December.
· Established three additional civil-military operations centers throughout Al Anbar Province to support leader engagement, civil administration and reconstruction efforts.
· Assisted in establishing, supplying, running, and disestablishing two displaced person camps for over 5,000 people during Operation Steel Curtain.
· Dramatically increased the engagement between the Al Anbar provincial government and the Government of Iraq. Al Anbar was the only provincial government in Iraq to actively and consistently meet with the Government of Iraq.
· Significantly increased the participation of government officials within the provincial government as well as the engagement between city governments and the provincial government.
· Worked with the Al Anbar governor and staff on developing a reconstruction project budget request totaling $610.6 million. At this time, the Government of Iraq has approved $75 million to fund the governor’s priority projects.
· Built governance processes and legitimacy by assisting the Provincial Reconstruction and Development Committee in reviewing and awarding 34 reconstruction projects valued at $7 million that are establishing or improving essential services throughout the region.

The Marines will arrive at the Heslar Naval Armory, 3010 White River Parkway, East Dr., Indianapolis, IN at approximately 4:00 PM EST where they will be reunited with their families and loved ones.

Amplifying information will be released as received, consistent with national security concerns. Point of Contact for this matter is Lieutenant Colonel Charles A. Haislip, 317-440-2516.

-end-

VA Health Benefits - My Healthe Vet

Gateway to VA Health CareThe Veterans Health Administration (VHA) provides a broad spectrum of medical, surgical, and rehabilitative care to its customers. Our goal is to share information about these benefits and services to make it as easy as possible for you to receive the care you need.

For more information see: http://www1.va.gov/health_benefits/ Good website!

Nam Buddies found 38 years Later!!

Dwight Saylor and Scott Caldwell shown in this picture (Scott seated left and Dwitght seated right) have been reunited with other Marines from 2nd Bn/26th Marines BLT H&S Comm Plt! On April 5th a phone call reunited Dwight and Skip Rankin also of 2/26. Skip had found Russ Eaglin and others over 5 years ago and now has been successful in finding 2 more Marines that served together in Nam in '68-'69. Both Dwight and Scott worked in the Tech Shop with Russ. There are more out there and we will continue to search for them. Getting back together after all this time is very special. WOW! What a day!!

Legislative Update

VFW Washington Weekly,April 3, 2006
In This Issue:
1. House Budget Committee Actions
2. Military Funeral Legislation Introduced
3. Veterans’ Champion Evans to Retire
4. Hearing Held on Cemetery Funding

1. House Budget Committee Actions
The House Budget Committee rejected the administration’s plan to charge Category 7 and 8 veterans a $250 enrollment fee and to raise prescription co-payments from $8 to $15, but the committee left alive a proposal to increase healthcare premiums for some military retirees under age 65.
On a 22-15 party-line vote, the committee rejected an amendment by Rep. Chet Edwards, D-TX, which would have blocked Pentagon plans to double and triple Tricare premiums for working-age military retirees. There is still time to join the VFW’s fight against the Tricare increases by sending a message to your Congressional representative today.
Click here to send a message: http://capwiz.com/vfw/issues/alert/?alertid=8585061&type=CO
The bill now moves to the floor of the House. The budget resolution is just a blueprint for spending in the fiscal year. The Appropriations Committees have the final say of how the money is actually spent.

2. Military Funeral Legislation Introduced
VFW-supported Legislation that would severely restrict protests during Military funerals at national cemeteries was introduced last week by Representative Mike Rogers (R-MI).
HR 5037, The Respect for America’s Fallen Heroes Act would ban all demonstrations one hour before, during, and after a military funeral at a national cemetery. It would impose a 500-foot separation restriction, and would allow for fines and/or jail time for violations. It also encourages the states to enact similar bans for public and private cemeteries, as well for funeral home services.
We ask all VFW members and veterans’ advocates to contact their legislators and urge them to sign on as a co-sponsor of HR 5037 and to fully support its enactment into law.
For the VFW Press Release go to:http://www.vfw.org/index.cfm?fa=news.newsDtl&did=3058

3. Veterans’ Champion Evans to Retire
Senior Democrat on the House Veterans Affairs’ Committee, Lane Evans (D-IL) announced his retirement last week due to health reasons. Evans suffers from Parkinson’s disease but plans to finish out the rest of his current term in the 109th Congress.
VFW Commander-in-Chief James R. Mueller lauded the Congressman for his many tireless years as a strong advocate for veterans. “For 24 years in Washington, Congressman Evans never failed to put the best interests of veterans and those who continue to serve ahead of partisan politics,” said Mueller.
Evans is also credited with being at the forefront of Agent Orange compensation, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Gulf War syndrome research, and the nation’s commitment to account for the 88,000 Americans who remain missing in action.
For more see the VFW Press Release at:http://www.vfw.org/index.cfm?fa=news.newsDtl&did=3034
4. Hearing Held on Cemetery Funding
House Veterans Affairs’ Subcommittee on Disability Assistance and Memorial Affairs held a hearing on operational issues and FY 2007 funding for Arlington National Cemetery and the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC).
Arlington National Cemetery is operated by the Department of the Army and ABMC is an independent agency of the executive branch that operates and maintains American military cemeteries overseas, as well as numerous federal monuments, memorials, and markers. The Veterans’ Affairs Committee has oversight responsibility for both.
The hearing was the second part of the subcommittees’ oversight on Veterans Affairs’ National Cemetery Administration and State Cemetery programs.
For more on the hearing go the Committee’s website at:http://veterans.house.gov/hearings/index.html

1st Annual Semper Fi Bike Run

MARINE CORPS LEAGUE
FIRST ANNUAL
SEMPER-FI BIKE RUN
(PROCEEDS TO BENEFIT THE MARINE CORPS LEAGUE'S MILITARY RITES TEAM)

Free Food!

Sign-in starts at 9 AM

DATE: JUNE 3rd, 2006
FIRST BIKE OUT: 11AM
LAST BIKE OUT: 12PM
LAST BIKE IN: 3PM AT VFW POST 1152
LOCATION: VFW POST 1152
920 N. WASHINGTON STREET
KOKOMO, IN
$15 - SINGLE
$20 - DOUBLE

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL JOE AT 765 437-3288
OR
EMAIL JOE (flexconnector63@yahoo.com)

Show your Colors Thursday, April 6th

SHOW YOUR COLORS:

TAKE AN AMERICAN FLAG TO WORK DAY,

THURSDAY, APRIL 6

All patriotic Americans who have been concerned about the predominance of flags of foreign nations at the recent pro-illegal alien marches and the desecration of the American flag by supporters of illegal aliens are being asked to participate in a demonstration of patriotism and American sovereignty by taking an American flag with them to work, school or anywhere this Thursday, April 6.Whether or not you support "work permits", "paths to citizenship", or the likes, you likely support the idea of flying the American flag with reverence. So lets do it! It is NOT anti-immigration, and can be a lesson to the recent demonstrators.How it works is simple: Proudly carry an American flag with you wherever you are in public. Small parade style flags on sticks would work best for those who commute by bus or subway and those who walk to work. Carry it around with you when you go out for lunch and when you leave work.Wear red, white and blue patriotic attire. Fly the American flag at your home. Fly an American flag from your car antenna. Tape an American flag in your car window. The goal is to have Old Glory be given the prominence it deserves and to remind everyone--politicians, illegal aliens and their enablers--that the American flag comes first in this country.Please pass this message along to everyone you know and every patriotic blogger you can think of. Contact any patriotic group you belong to. Contact your local media and talk radio shows. Stand up for America and Old Glory this Thursday.Our Troops are standing by the flag every day while in harms way.http://troopssupport.com/

26th Marines Reunion

The 26th Marines Chapter will have a Reunion during the 3rd Marine Division Reunion in Milwaukee, WI. August 8-13, 2006 at the Hyatt Regency Milwaukee, 333 West Kilbourn Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53203 Call (414) 276-1234 for reservations.
go to: http://www.caltrap.com/ for 3rd Mar Div Reunion Details

Reunion of 1/3 Marines, 3rd Mar Div

3rd Marines, and 1/3 Marines will hold a reunion August 9-12, 2006 thru the Hyatt Regency in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This is located 333 West Kilbourn. Phone# 215-822-9094.

Marines "Taking Care of Our Own"

The Marine Foundation of Central Indiana is established to promote the interests of the United States Marine Corps by:

• 
  Supporting Marines and their families that are in need! The Marine Family is defined as the community of Marine Corps units, both active and reserve, as well as Marine Veterans groups and associations presented as a whole to present the interest of the Marine Corps.
  
• Carrying out the dictum of “taking care of our own” by coordinating support for the Marine Corps Community in the Central Indiana area to include the Marines and Marine Families, families of deployed Marines, Marine widows/widowers and orphans, and disabled or needy former Marines.
  
• Engaging in and promoting social and civic endeavors, singly or in association with other groups, which will effectively enhance the public image, standing, interests and proud traditions of the United States Marine Corps in the Central Indiana area and elsewhere.
  
• Educatiing the general public about the needs of the Marines in the State of Indiana.

For more information go to: www.SemperFiIndy.org

3rd Marine Division Association Reunion

52nd Annual Reunion
Milwaukee, WIAugust 8-13, 2006Hyatt Regency Milwaukee333 West Kilbourn Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53203(414) 276-1234

go to: www.Caltrap.com for Reunion Details

Central Division Conference, Marine Corps League

Central Division Conference

Thursday April 20 - Sunday April 23, 2006

Washtenaw County Detachment #414

P.O. Box 2523

Ann Arbor, Michigan 48106-2523

City: Ypsilanti, Michigan

Hotel: Ypsilanti Marriott, 1275 S. Huron St. Exit, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, phone 734-487-2000 (mentionMarine Corps League).

Hotel Directions: Off I-94, Exit 183 (Huron St. exit), go south 1/8 mile on the eastside (left) of road.

Hotel Room Rates: $75.00 + 8% Tax Government Rate

Strip Ticket $35.00, Registration $5.00, Hospitality $5.00, $25.00 Dinner

Banquet (Includes continental breakfast on Saturday and Sunday in the Hospitality Room)

Checks payable to: MCL Washtenaw County Det. #414

Send Registration to Crystal Witkowski, 8016 Thornhill Drive, Ypsilanti, MI 48197-6169 (Registration form available online at www.MCL414.org)

Phone 734-482-9424 Email: patridge801@aol.com

Event Chairman: PDC Tony Wade, 11728 Kenton Dr. Whitmore Lake, MI 48189-9342

Phone 734-449-2249 Email: twade3056@charter.net

Change of Command for Marine Corps League Indy

The Marine Corps League, Hiram I. Bearss Detachment in Indianapolis, In. will conduct a Change of Command on Thursday April 13, 2006. All Marines and friends of Marines are invited. See www.IndyMarines.org website for directions to the League home for the event.


1800 Social (Beverages and Appetizers)
1900 Opening Ceremony Commandant Eaglin
Roll Call of Officers
Applications for Membership
1910 Installation of Officers Commandant Eaglin
Comments Commandant Albright
Good of the League
1925 Closing Ceremony Commandant Albright
1930 Pitch In Meal (Detachment providing meat)

23rd Annual Bean Supper - Indy

The 1st Marine Division Association, Inc., Central Indiana Chapter, is hosting its 23rd Annual Bean Supper on Saturday, April 15, 2006. This is the Chapter's once a year fundraising event to support its scholarship fund. For those who can not attend, donations would be appreciated.

The menu is Ham & Beans, corn bread, slaw, drink and desert for $5.00 per person.
Time: Supper at 1830
Auction at 1915
Place: Lawrence Community Center
5301 N. Franklin Rd
Lawrence, IN

Please RSVP by April 12th to Steve Risch, RISCHUSMC@COMCAST.NET

eScuttlebutt born on date: April 1, 2006

Not a joke, eScuttlebutt was born on April 1, 2006 as a Blog for Marines, current and former, to get and pass the real scoop. Posting upcoming events, newsarticles about Marine activities and accomplishments. Adding an occasional sea story. Are all part of this eScuttlebutt Blog.


No, we really do not want to post all the stuff floating around the internet in constantly bulk forwarded emails. To maintain credibility, we need to verify the validity of the scoop being passed, so make sure you know the origin and the credibility of the scoop that you want posted.